February 27, 2005
Introduction...
Hello, my name is Ben Moga and I'm running for Alder in District 5. I met with the school information system group today at Jim's house and think it is an excellent organization. Real topics are discussed, the people are genuinely interested, and it serves as a great way to communicate. I see education as a top priority not just locally or nationally, but for the whole world.
I'm working on a project that is meant to address the issue of overweight children. It has become a topic even at the federal level and I'm working to get Badger Athletes out to elementary schools in coordination with the City's Fitness Initiative. Anyone interested can check out the project and its progress on my blog orientated website.
www.votemoga.com
I am definitely interested in addressing the educational issues that will face not only my district, but that of the whole city. Any comments you have will be greatly appreciated.
Bill Gates: US High Schools Obsolete
he most blunt assessment came from Microsoft chief Bill Gates, who has put more than $700 million into reducing the size of high school classes through the foundation formed by him and his wife, Melinda. He said high schools must be redesigned to prepare every student for college, with classes that are rigorous and relevant to kids and with supportive relationships for children.I am no fan of Bill Gates. [Slashdot discussion] He does, however raise some useful points, including the biggest obstacle: political will."America's high schools are obsolete," Gates said. "By obsolete, I don't just mean that they're broken, flawed or underfunded, though a case could be made for every one of those points. By obsolete, I mean our high schools _ even when they're working as designed _ cannot teach all our students what they need to know today."
Maintenance Referendum Hearing - Video Clip
Watch a recent Madison School Board Maintenance Referendum Hearing (video). Don Severson, Roger Price, Art Rainwater and others discuss the planned maintenance referendum.
Madison School Board Candidate Site Update
Larry Winkler's video interview (and audio mp3) file are now available on the candidate site. Please note that I've heard nothing from incumbent Bill Clingan regarding a video interview or the posting of candidate Q & A documents.
I've also posted campaign finance information from the candidate's January 31, 2005 filings. Here are the numbers:
- Incumbent Carol Carstensen raised $3,189.00
- Incumbent Bill Clingan reported $1,085 on hand
- Lawrie Kobza raised $665.00
- Larry Winkler raised $100.00